Babouches are a type of traditional footwear from the Arab world. The term babouche comes from the Persian Papush , a contraction of Pa, the foot, and Puschidan, to cover. Initially worn by women who were not to show the tips of their feet, then gradually adopted by everyone, they are now coveted in all countries, and regularly present at the fashion shows of the greatest couturiers. The ancestral know-how of Moroccan artisans is world-renowned in this field.
What are the different types of slippers?
Although some details may vary, babouches are easily recognizable because they usually have neither quarter (the part that goes from the heel to below the ankles), nor ear (where the eyelets for the laces are found). They are therefore open and flat shoes , that is to say without a heel. The interior of the babouches is made of split leather which naturally limits perspiration problems. There are two main types of babouches.
Berber slippers
First of all, there are slippers with a rather round or sometimes square toe , called Bedouin , Berber or dambira slippers. They have a thicker sole, now made of rubber or elastomer, and sometimes a tab at the back that allows them to be worn for work in all conditions, or for hurrying. They are known to be very robust and can be embroidered, engraved or decorated.
City slippers
Then there are the so-called urban or oriental babouches, which benefit from high-quality finishes , a fairly thin leather sole and decorations which can be embroidery, embossing or even jewelry, as well as very discreet or even invisible seams . These babouches are used indoors or worn on special occasions such as parties or ceremonies . The materials used are very varied and you can choose, in addition to the classic leather models, suede, silk or imitation leather.
Modern slippers for all styles
Over time, artisans from different regions of Morocco have evolved the babouche, making it part of our current lifestyle . Thus, some models intended for women have a slight heel or unusual patterns and finishes like denim babouches. Creativity is now limitless and you can always find a babouche that will go perfectly with your outfit, from the simplest gandouras to the most elaborate djellabas and caftans . But also with a skirt , a dress , shorts or pants .
How to choose a women's slipper?
A woman's slipper is more than just a shoe. It must be perfectly matched to the outfit , just like a bag or a scarf. For this, you will have the choice between many shapes, colors and finishes that can make the difference. The leathers can be dyed in any shade, and the slipper can be personalized with traditional symbols , such as a hand of Fatima, which can be made in perforated leather or even with topstitching. You can highlight your feet with rosettes in sparkles and sequins, or opt for the sobriety of a plain model. If you are looking for slipper shoes for your wedding , there are superb models with added embroidery on very high quality leathers, or even the insertion of real jewels.
If you walk a lot, specific models of very comfortable Berber slippers offer very feminine finishes that will perfectly match your outfits.
How to choose a men's slipper?
While men are increasingly paying attention to their style, they generally own a limited number of slippers . If this is your case, you should instead opt for models that will go with most of your outfits and that should be sturdy. Classic colors are preferred, such as black, brown or white. The same goes for the finishes, which should be discreet and sober.
However, you can still assert your style by wearing unique slippers , as the choice of shapes, colors, and materials is just as wide as for women's models. Sports fans can wear slippers in the colors of their favorite team on match nights.
How is a slipper made?
Making a babouche requires precise know-how . The first step is to choose good quality raw materials to ensure both hold and durability . Generally, the upper of the babouche is made from goatskin , which is very supple, while the sole will be made of calfskin , or plastic for Berber babouches. The leathers are cut according to the desired shape and size.
Several techniques can be used to assemble the pieces (by machine , glue or by hand ) depending on the destination of the slipper. Indeed, some slipper are only designed for indoor use and therefore do not have the same resistance as those that will have to accompany you outside.
The seams are made using several silk and nylon threads that will be visible on Berber slippers, or hidden on city slippers. The next step is to remove the excess material and shape the slipper using a template.
Depending on the models, the design can be worked on before assembly (openwork leather, stitching, lining with another material) or after assembly (adding jewels or sequins).
So, a pair of handmade slippers takes a full day of work for the craftsman. But for special models such as those intended for weddings and special occasions, it can take several days .
Finally, know that each region of Morocco has its own specificities in terms of shapes, materials and decorations of babouches, and more particularly concerning the patterns.
